Sprains and Strains

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains rank among the top three injuries afflicting athletes today. Luckily, though, these injuries are–with just the right care–relatively simple to treat and heal.

A sprain involves the tearing and stretching of those ligaments that connect the bones, most frequently the ankle. A strain, by contrast, involves the tearing or stretching of a tendon or muscle; most commonly in the lower back and the back of the thigh (most specifically, in the hamstring muscle). Both conditions are characterized by pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. A sprain often comes accompanied by a popping of the joint, while a strain is commonly associated with muscle spasms.

When mild, both sprains and strains are generally treated through a light and brief regimen of ice, rest, therapeutic massage, compression, pain-killing medications, modified activity, PRP, shockwave therapy, and elevation. When injuries are moderate or several, treatments may include physical therapy, bracing, or even surgical repair.